Can you go rafting down the river while pregnant?

Question

Im seven months pregnant, and my fiance and I would like to go rafting down the river next weekend, Im not so sure if this is a good idea?

Answer 1

It depends on how far along you are and if you're healthy and what the river is like. My sister just mis-carried without any sort of trauma but she's 38 and she'd been having some complications.

On the other hand, I know people who are very active right up to the birth and don't have any problems.

In regards to rafting, generally class III is pretty safe when the river is at normal flows. If it's really high or really low it can get much more difficult.

Also, make sure you tell the outfitter your situation and request a safe guide that will look after you. If you're going with a smaller rafting company you'll probably get to talk to the owner and they can make sure you're well taken care of.

I've been a river guide and kayaker for 16 years. I've taken pregnant women, elderly people, handicapped people and small children down the river. It can be done safely, but you should be more careful when you're pregnant.

I manage a website called allaboutrivers.com that has an online guide for rafting trips and includes almost every outfitter in the country.

I'm also very familiar with many outfitters and rivers and I can help you find someone who is appropriate. All inquiries off of my website go to me, so just fill out a contact form.

Answer 2

I definitely would not, regardless of what doctors say.  There are so many unpredictables in pregnancy -- and so many unpredictables in river rafting.  Combining the two just seems reckless, and for no reason, right?  It's not like your last shot at the Olympics or anything!  Why take a chance -- cheer your friends along while rubbing your belly like a genie lamp (hee hee).

Seriously, enjoy your pregnancy, but I advise not doing something that could have a terrble negative -- and unfixable -- consequence!

Answer 3

If its a small river with easy rapids then sure, but if there is anything stronger than a class 3 I would 100% not do it.